How To Go Zero Waste With Your Toothpaste
As a mom of three, I’ve been on a quest to make our household more eco-friendly, and guess what?
I’ve discovered some amazing zero waste toothpaste options that are not only good for the planet but also fun and effective for the whole family!
Why Zero Waste Toothpaste?
Did You Know? Every year, about one billion plastic toothpaste tubes end up in landfills, taking forever to biodegrade.
It’s high time to switch to sustainable alternatives that don’t compromise on quality or our pearly whites’ health.
Plus, it’s a great way to teach our kids about sustainability in a practical, everyday way.
Sustainable Toothpaste Brands That Shine
Huppy
These vegan, zero waste toothpaste tabs from Huppy are the result of over 100 formula iterations. They’re free from SLS, GMOs, sulfates, parabens, and artificial dyes. What’s more, they contain hydroxyapatite to protect and remineralize teeth, making them a great alternative to fluoride-based toothpaste.
etee
etee offers plastic-free toothpaste tablets in a minty vanilla flavor, using ingredients like Canadian glacial clay and kaolin clay. These vegan, cruelty-free tablets come in a glass jar with steel lid, and refill packs are available in compostable pouches. Etee also has a plastic-free toothpaste with fluoride for those who prefer it.
Georganics
This UK-based brand provides eco-friendly toothpaste without fluoride, SLS, palm oil, or glycerin. Their products come in various flavors and are packaged in reusable glass jars. Georganics also makes oil-pulling mouthwashes and bamboo floss.
SuperBee
This brand offers vegan toothpaste tablets suitable for sensitive teeth, made with natural ingredients and free from fluoride, talc, sugar, and palm oil. SuperBee is also a Certified B Corp that supports local communities in Thailand.
Bite
Bite’s sustainable toothpaste bits come in various flavors, and most are fluoride-free, containing nano-hydroxyapatite for teeth remineralization and whitening. The packaging is eco-friendly, refillable, and carbon-neutral.
The Dirt
Offering plastic-free powdered toothpaste, The Dirt’s products are vegan and paleo-friendly. They use bentonite clay powders, which are gentle on the enamel and come in mini glass mason jars for a 6-month supply.
ScentCerae
Their toothpaste tablets, made with a blend of natural clays and organic xylitol, exclude fluoride, titanium dioxide, glycerine, SLS, and other harmful components. They offer four naturally-derived flavors and their packaging is designed to minimize waste.
Unpaste
These zero waste toothpaste tablets are vegan, cruelty-free, and free from preservatives, GMOs, gluten, dyes, palm oil, and other harmful substances. They offer both fluoride and fluoride-free options in compostable packaging.
Humble Co.
Humble Co’s toothpaste tablets are biodegradable and perfect for travel. They come in both fluoride and fluoride-free varieties, packaged in recyclable or compostable containers. Humble Co also supports oral health projects for children in need.
Tips For Choosing Your Zero Waste Toothpaste
Choosing the right plastic-free toothpaste involves considering several factors to ensure you find a product that is both environmentally friendly and effective for your dental needs.
Here are some tips to help you make an informed choice:
Ingredients: Look for natural ingredients that are effective in cleaning teeth and maintaining oral health. Common ingredients in plastic-free toothpastes include baking soda, coconut oil, and essential oils. Avoid harmful chemicals like triclosan, SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate), and artificial sweeteners.
Packaging: The most obvious aspect of plastic-free toothpaste is its packaging. Look for toothpaste in glass jars, metal tubes, or compostable containers. Some brands also offer toothpaste tablets or powders in glass jars or paper packaging.
Fluoride or Fluoride-Free: Decide if you want fluoride in your toothpaste. Fluoride is known for its cavity-fighting properties, but some people prefer fluoride-free options for various reasons. Both types are available in plastic-free versions.
Effectiveness: Ensure that the toothpaste you choose is effective in cleaning teeth, fighting plaque, and freshening breath. You can read customer reviews or ask for recommendations from friends or family.
Sensitivity and Oral Health Needs: If you have sensitive teeth or other specific oral health needs, look for a toothpaste that caters to these. Some natural toothpastes are formulated for sensitivity, whitening, or gum health.
Certifications: Look for certifications like organic, vegan, or cruelty-free, depending on your preferences. These certifications can provide assurance about the product’s quality and ethical standards.
Taste and Texture: Since natural toothpastes can have different textures and flavors compared to traditional toothpaste, consider trying a few samples to find one that you enjoy using.
Price and Availability: Compare prices and check the availability of the toothpaste. Some natural toothpastes can be more expensive than conventional ones, so it’s important to find one that fits your budget and is easily accessible.
Environmental Impact: Consider the overall environmental impact of the product, including how it is manufactured and the sourcing of its ingredients.
Making the Switch to Zero Waste Toothpaste
Switching to zero waste toothpaste is not just an eco-friendly move; it’s a health-conscious choice for our families.
With so many options available, you can easily find a product that suits your family’s preferences and needs.
Plus, it’s a great way to start conversations with our kids about sustainability and the impact of our daily choices on the environment.
Remember, every small step towards sustainability counts, especially in our journey as parents trying to shape a better world for our children.
Let’s make our daily routines count for something bigger!
